Triumphrat

03-12-2007, 07:04 PM

I test rode an 06 Sprint ST and had already talked myself into buying one before getting to the dealership. The price along with free hardbags and a helmet were a sign from above that this bike needed to be mine, but when I rode it I was dissapointed. It sounded great, although a little lean, It cornered very well and it was almost a done deal, but it had no hit to it. The acceleration just wasn't as exciting as it should be for a liter bike. Anyone have any cures for this besides ripping the motor apart. I tried to get the front end to loft without abusing the poor bike but had no luck. Any and all abuse and help is welcome. I really want the bike but it has to be faster than this.

stinger · 03-12-2007, 07:15 PM

Interesting.. I'm coming off a Superhawk and found the power delivery on the Sprint to be very pleasant. I'm still breaking mine in and haven't gotten to really get on it yet but it's seems extremely quick for what it is and the power delivery is super smooth.

My only suggestion would be open up the exhaust with an aftermarket can and maybe a power commander if you want more. I haven't researched it but I assume you can put a PC on the Sprints

BlackBeauty · 03-12-2007, 07:15 PM

Hhmmhh - it is, of course, much heavier and longer of wheelbase than a litre sportsbike.

Personally, I have all the power in this bike that I can even begin to deal with safely.

This engine is much more about great low and mid range torque/drive - that said, she still has a top end that is very good FOR THIS TYPE OF BIKE.

The aftermarket exhaust will add a few bhp - but it will never be as highly accelerative as a GSXR1000, R1 etc etc.

I find the power and torque deceptive - rolling on in top will have you at triple digits very, very quickly.

Mayve a Kawasaki ZX14 would suit you better??

Either way - take care, BB

Vox · 03-12-2007, 07:18 PM

Um, I lifted the front end by accident yesterday. I doubt I even brought it over 7,000 RPM. That tells me I can lift the front end whenever I want.

Look, if you want the neck-snapping performance of a I-4 liter bike, get one. The Sprint is designed for a demographic that wants an extremely smooth, sporty touring bike with nice ergos and plenty of even torque and horsepower. If you want something faster, you're probably looking in the wrong class.

I find the overall performance impressive. If you were truly underwhelmed, it's possible the bike you tested wasn't in prime running condition.

AZWildcat · 03-12-2007, 07:36 PM

I find the power very suitable for a sport / tourer. The delivery, the torque and the smooth running triple are perfect for this type of bike. The Sprint will go from 0 - 100 plenty fast enough for me and considerably faster than my wife likes. I think maybe you should look at a different type of motorcycle.

03-12-2007, 07:47 PM

I do apprecaite everyones input, just to clear up a few things, I am not necessarily looking for GSXR1000 acceleration, but my ZRX1200 outpulls the sprint. I also rode the new Tiger and it pulled harder than the Sprint I rode. I am hoping it is like what one of you said, that it was not in tune at the time. Has anyone changed the countershaft sprocket to one tooth smaller or played with a power commander? I realize the bike does get to speed quickly, I was just expecting more of a rush. Let me know your thoughts. At this time I am considering going back for another test ride.

BlackBeauty · 03-12-2007, 08:13 PM

Certainly sounds as if the Sprint you rode was not a typical performer. I think it should be at least as good as the Tiger and more than likely a match for the ZRX1200.

I have definitely had the front wheel skimming the ground - which is more than enough thrill for me. I have neither the skill nor stupidity that the group of 5 riders had on the I-15 on Saturday - stand-up wheelies in afternoon traffic etc etc.

03-12-2007, 08:16 PM

If a well tuned Sprint will run with my ZRX1200 I will soon have a new payment book coming to me in the mail. Like I said, I really liked everything about the bike except the performance and I sure hope it was that particular bike. It was a demo unit so perhaps it was not tuned to the best to keep idiots like me from trying to loft the front end.

PaloAlto · 03-12-2007, 08:26 PM

307,

If your demo Sprint didn't pull as hard as an '07 Tiger, then there's probably something amiss with that Sprint. The Tiger's torque curve is notably flatter (though starts earlier) than the Sprint's. The Tiger just isn't as quick as the Sprint.

spits71 · 03-12-2007, 08:48 PM

My 06 with the standard exhaust, tank bag, and all the other accessories bolted to it will loft the front wheel upwithout a problem.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGtMvYUTZrw
It sounds like this guy pops it up for the first 3 gears without much of a problem. :-D